Missouri State, Springfield Public School Team Up on Dual Credit Scholarships

Missouri State and Springfield Public Schools have announced a partnership where qualifying students will be able to earn high school and college credits at the same time.

The program is designed for students who qualify for free or reduced lunches, have at least a 3.0 grade point average, and meet course prerequisites.

“Dual credit courses provide opportunities for students to get a head start on a college education,” Missouri State President Clif Smart said in a statement. “We want to make dual credit accessible to all students, regardless of their financial situation.”

The schools said that research shows students who complete dual credit courses in high school are more likely to pursue and complete two-year and four-year degrees after high school.

Springfield Public Schools says that more than 50% of students in the district qualify for free or reduced lunches.

“The opportunity to partner with Missouri State University to expand access to higher education for under-resourced students is a big step forward in the pursuit of equity,” Dr. John Jungmann, superintendent of Springfield Public Schools, said in a statement. “Beyond the impact to SPS, this agreement opens doors for students participating in Launch virtual learning, as well as for our regional GO CAPS partners. We greatly appreciate Missouri State University’s commitment to exploring new ways to reach and welcome students in order to help prepare them for successful futures.”